A Day Late & A Dollar Short

Sorry, one day late!

I'm thankful for...

1. My wife. Yesterday was our 4th anniversary. I love her more and more every day.

2. Being able to be home with Matthew in the evening. I love to spend time with the little guy every chance I get.

3. Strollers. I think we're gonna run the wheels right off the one we have. We've mentioned our walks before, I think!

4. A riding lawn mower. We were push mowing until a couple weeks ago. It cuts down on our mow time by almost half. Which gives me more time to do the things I enjoy. (See # 2 above)

5. Our church family. We have been blessed by having such nice friends and family at our church. Through low times and high, they have always been there.

Just A Normal Evening

Just a few random shots from last night. We went on another long walk last night, and as usual, Matthew loved it. He really loves being outside! Last night, we walked the river greenway in town and spent the rest of the evening indoors. The weather is so nice right now. We're just not sure how Matthew is going to like the winter considering we won't be able to go on walks. I offered to rig up some sort of device to strap the stroller to the treadmill, but Jamie wasn't having any of that! Oh, well. Hope everyone has a happy Wednesday!

Just chillin'.

Mommy, do you have to get so close to me with that flash?!

Me and Daddy.

No more pictures! I think I just filled my drawers.

Wanted

If you see this guy, let us know. He thinks he's pretty cool in his "recliner"!

Thankful Thursday -Ryan Style

1. A melancholy Thankful Thursday today. Jamie's Grandma Phegley passed away early Wednesday morning. We are so thankful to have known her while she was with us. She was a very special lady, and we all will miss her so much.

2. Hospice. For those of you that have experienced what they do, you know what I am talking about. Probably some of the most caring people you will ever meet.

3. Jamie's Mom. To take care of Noel's mother for 5 months was above the call of duty. She is a pretty special person for taking on that responsibility.

4. Sunny days. Fall is here! I think. Maybe not officially, but it seems like the weather is changing, and I love it. Both Jamie and I love the fall so much!

5. Good directions. Bluffton is having their street fair this week, which means that the main streets in town are shut down, making it just about impossible to find the funeral home and church. Thankfully, we had good directions and we were able to find everything all right. Some of our friends stopped at a gas station to ask for directions last night, and one person told them, "You can't get there from here." And another person told them, "Don't you know that you don't die during the street fair?" Thankfully, another person was able to direct them to the funeral home!

I hope you all have a great weekend.

One Month Old!

Jacob is doing the Itsy Bitsy Spider in this picture. If you get a chance to see him do it, it is so cute! Matthew is doing his favorite activity: sleeping!



Jacob's first attempt at holding Matthew. He is in grandma's wheelchair. I am not sure if he is too sure about Matthew or not, but he did a good job holding him!



This is one of Matthew's new faces. I think this is the face he makes when he has gas! He seems to have a lot of gas lately, today he ripped one in church during the prayer time!



This is Friday night in the parking lot at Hobby Lobby. Daddy stayed in the van to feed Matthew while Mommy went in to get a few things. When I got back out to the van, Matthew had new clothes on and the windows in the van were completely fogged over. He apparently had a major accident while I shopped! Good thing there was a long line or I might have had to change that one!

Thankful Thursdays...

Today, I am thankful for...

1. Hospice. We placed my grandma on hospice yesterday. She is still living with my parents and the hospice team is now coming several times per week to check on her. This is an incredible service and we are hoping they will help keep grandma comfortable as she approaches the end of this life.

2. Chris. She is our hospice case manager. She has been at my parent's home yesterday and today to check on grandma. She coordinates the care and sets up visits from other staff members as needed. They even have a massage therapist and a music therapist who will come for visits if desired.

3. Laura. She is a CNA who came today to give grandma a bath. She was wonderful and was so gentle and caring.

4. Terry. He is the guy who delivers all the needed supplies. He has brought us two different beds (the first one was not firm enough for grandma), a wheelchair, oxygen, a nebulizer... the list goes on. He is very friendly and most helpful in teaching my mom how everything works.

5. My mom! She has been a saint throughout this process. Grandma has been living with them for the past 5 months and mom has been her primary caregiver. I know grandma is very grateful for all she has done... it has been a long road for them both!

No Comment

I don't really have anything to say. I just wanted to put this picture on the blog. Have a good day!

The Blanchard's

We had a great time visiting with Ryan's college roommate and family last Friday. They used to live right around the corner from us and now live close to Indianapolis, so we don't get to see them as often as we would like! I love how Jake is trying to turn Grace's head for the picture!

Shania Twain

Well, Matthew seems to like to listen to music when he is upset, so last weekend we were playing Steven Curtis Chapman's "Live Out Loud" for him and he settled right down. We went out to dinner Saturday night and took the CD in the van in case we had a screaming fit and we broke the CD!!!! So, yesterday, I went to the closet where we keep CDs that we don't listen to very much anymore and grabbed the one off the top. I am a little embarrassed to say that it is Shania Twain. Well, Matthew loves it! In fact, it has been playing since we finished his bath this morning and he has been sitting in his bouncy seat, playing with his hands for about the last 40 minutes. I think I will try to find a different artist to play for him this afternoon!

Peppler Family

Create your own family sticker graphic at pYzam.com

Confessions of a New Mommy

There are a few things I didn't realize about motherhood before embarking on this journey. I typically like to think of myself as a well-informed, well educated woman, however, I am learning something new everyday. Here are a few of my latest life lessons...

1. Breast pumps leave little to the imagination. The first time I used this lovely device, I am pretty sure I looked like Bessie the Cow. I am certainly thankful to have this piece of machinery, but unfortunately modesty has gone by the wayside!

2. Little boys spray pee all over the place! I grew up with a sister, so we were way more into Barbies and dolls and had little knowledge about the anatomy of little boys! I have had to take cover on more than one occasion and have learned the hard way to make sure you point it south before diapering!

3. Puke comes in all forms. Our little guy is a "spitter" as they call it at the pediatrician's office. He has shown us a variety of different textures and forms of the nasty stuff. My favorite was last night when he soaked Ryan's shirt with the cottage-cheese like version!

I am sure there will be more life lessons along the way... hopefully not all of them contain a bodily fluid! Have a great day!

Photo Session Hysteria!!!

Here are a few shots of Matthew with his big cousin Jacob... it was quite an ordeal! I think Mommy and Aunt Abby had more fun with this than the boys did! As you can see, Matthew was pretty lively throughout the experience! Enjoy!

I love this picture of Jacob... I think he looks a little mischevious! Again, Matthew was still snoozing!

Thankful Thursdays

We have so much to be thankful for!

1. A three day work week for me! Labor Day on Monday and a vacation day tomorrow means I get to spend two extra days with my two favorite people, Jamie and Matthew. Our good friends, Jake and Lindsie are visiting from Indy with their two little girls, Ava and Grace!

2. Internet classes. I am taking classes on line through Purdue Calumet in Hammond, Indiana, near Chicago. If it wasn't for these classes on line, I would have to drive at least twice a week to either Hammond or West Lafayette.

3. Rain. We just got doused with rain last night. It was the first time in a long time. I fear that our yard is already dead, though. Good news is that I haven't had to mow in three weeks!

4. Grandmas and Grandpas! How cool it is that Matthew will be able to grow up close to all his family. I love that we live so close to our family and friends!

5. Jamie. After only three weeks of Matthew being here, I think Jamie is already the best mom in the world. Seeing her take care of him is so great, and I couldn't have imagined our lives being better than they are right now. I love them both very much.

Ryan

Labor Day

Matthew here...

I am celebrating my first Labor Day with style. Mommy and Daddy say that we are going to Great Grandpa and Great Grandma Kessie's house this morning. I love going to see them! Then, we are going to Grandpa and Grandma Phegley's for a brunch. I don't know what a brunch is, but it sounds great! They told me I would see cousins and aunts and uncles. I love being held, so this also sounds like a good time. Then, after my big morning, Mommy and Daddy are going to take me on a walk. I love walks!!! Mommy and Daddy must love them, too. They are always saying they love them because I sleep during them! I hope everyone enjoys their day off. I know I will!

Just hanging out in Daddy's arms!

I just wanted everyone to know that I have been eating very well. Look at those cheeks.

Aaahh..........Choo!

Thankful Thursdays...

After a brief hiatus, thankful Thursdays have returned. Today, I am thankful for:

1. Matthew. He is just precious!

2. Ryan. He has been so helpful and supportive over the last couple weeks while we try to adjust to parenthood and I try to get my emotions and hormones in check!

3. Beautiful weather. Matthew and I have been able to take walks around the neighborhood everyday! Getting out and enjoying the fresh air has been good for both of us!

4. Healing. I am feeling very good and have healed very nicely. It is amazing how the human body works!!! I am still a tad sore somedays, but for the most part I am feeling great!

5. A long weekend. Matthew and I are looking forward to having Daddy at home this weekend for an extra day! We are hoping for a quiet, restful weekend!

Happy Labor Day!

Due Date

Well, Matthew's original due date has come and gone. He was originally supposed to be born on August 25th, but instead, he decided he liked the 12th better! Here's some random shots.

Getting ready for church!

I'm not quite sure where he learned this trick. He is balancing his pacifier on his lips. Just in case he wants it later???

On the Road Again!

Well, after two long weeks of not being able to drive, I am finally free to get behind the wheel again! Matthew and I will be venturing out today to go visit Daddy at work and take him to lunch! Matthew is so excited about our outing that he has been awake since about 8:15 this morning! This is his longest stretch of awake time so far. He is now starting to nod off again, so I suppose he will sleep most of the afternoon! I am so excited to drive again and be able to get out of the house a little more! Will update you on our adventures as they happen!

Church

Matthew made his first trip to church this morning. Mommy and Matthew had a bit of a long night last night, so we opted for 2nd service this morning! He slept through the entire service!! Of course, everyone thought he was adorable... Mommy and Daddy are a tad biased! He also took his first bottle from Daddy this morning. He ate almost 3 ounces... it is kind of nice to know how much he eats since I have no idea how many ounces 20 minutes equals! Gotta go wake the little guy up so he can enjoy some of the beautiful weather this afternoon! Have a great week!

Changing Everyday!

This is one of my favorite pictures of Matthew right now! I love it when his eyes are open!!!! He even crossed his eyes for the occasion!!! He LOVES his bouncy seat!!!! Right now he is napping on Grandpa Phegley's lap so Mommy could sneak away for a few minutes! Hope everyone has a wonderful weekend!

Projectile!

Warning for those of you with weak stomachs. Turn away from the computer right now!

I have just experienced something that I never quite knew was possible. Something that I can now prevent. I just wish somebody would have warned me before now. I have heard of projectile vomit and projectile puke but no one has ever told me about projectile poop! Seriously...that was probably the grossest, yet coolest thing I have ever experienced!!! Unfortunately, Matthew dirtied several burp rags, his changing table cloths, a basket, his clothes, and several diapers, but Daddy was quite proud and amazed at the whole situation as evidenced by the "Jamie, you just missed it!" yell across the house. I now know to always cover every orifice at all times when changing diapers. And to you all that have never experienced this phenomenon...YOU'VE ALL BEEN WARNED!!!

Motherhood

Well, I thought it was about time I make a post about our little guy! He is just precious! Even in the middle of the night when he is screaming for no apparent reason, I just look at him and he looks at me and my heart melts! I could just squeeze the poop out of him, however, he doesn't seem to need any assistance in that category!!!! Daddy is getting very good at changing dirty diapers and helping me however he can! He is an awesome dad and I am so thankful to have him here to help me!

I am feeling GREAT! I honestly can't believe how good my recovery has gone so far! In fact, I feel so good, Ryan and I just took Matthew for his first walk around the neighborhood. He slept through the entire thing, but we think he enjoyed it! I can't believe tomorrow our little guy will be a week old already... time sure does fly when you're having fun! I can't wait to experience more of the joys of being a mommy!

My First Post

Hi, world! My name is Matthew! I am so excited to be here! (Where I'm from, sleep = excitement.) I have met lots and lots of people over the last several days, and it seems that I am really gonna like my Grandmas and Grandpas! Not to mention my Uncles and Aunts and my big cousin, Jacob. I am a little confused though why my Mommy and Daddy keep calling me Jacob. Hmm... Well, I'd better go. Daddy says he's not a very fast one-handed typer!

The Pitfalls of Parenthood!

We love being Mommy and Daddy! I just wanted to show you some of the things we've gone through, though!

Swollen feet!

Initiated with spit-up!

But then there are the great times, which outweigh those other times by far!

Perfect.

Mommy and her little studmuffin!

More news and more pictures!

We made it home around noon Friday! Matthew has been quite the little angel today, only screaming a few times, while sleeping most of the time. Mommy and Daddy got the chance to play photographer and hopefully, you will enjoy the photos! Mommy is healing very well and shows almost no signs of having pretty major abdominal surgery only 3 days ago. Daddy is awfully proud of both Mommy and Matthew.

There were a couple of funny things that happened at the hospital this week that I want to share.

1. The fact that Mommy and Daddy have continuously referred to Matthew as Jacob (our nephew).

2. When Pastor Paul came to visit in the hospital, Matthew proceeded to fold his little hands like he was praying. He even interlocked his fingers!

3. Matthew got in one of his little screaming fits, and we couldn't quite get him under control. Jamie noticed that his little socks had fallen off. He stopped crying as soon as we got the socks back on. We decided that socks are our friends!

Ok, enough of me typing...Here are some pictures!

Pictures!!!

We had quite an eventful day yesterday! After having contractions for 9 hours yesterday, Matthew decided he didn't want to come naturally. Several times yesterday morning, his heart rate would drop, causing some concern with the doctor. So, at 1:32 yesterday afternoon, they wheeled Jamie into surgery to get him out. He arrived soon after at 1:39. Jamie is recovering quite well. When I left the hospital this morning, she was getting ready to get up for the first time and take a shower. She's hoping to get something to eat later today or possibly tomorrow. She hasn't eaten anything since Friday night, so I am sure she will be quite ready. Matthew has had several visitors, including grandparents, aunts and uncles, cousins, and our pastor. He is a very popular guy right now! Jamie will be in the hospital for several more days, and the goal is to be home on Friday. I came home this morning just to post a few pictures and get away from the hospital for a little bit. So, here goes...

Pretty happy little guy so far...Not in this picture, though!!

Mommy and Matthew...He seems to take to her quite well.

Cousins Jacob and Matthew...One of my favorite pictures of the day! Jacob came right in the room and said, "Baby!"

He is maybe 5 minutes old in this picture. As you can see, he has a little bit of hair. The pediatrician says that all his parts are in the right place and he is a perfect little boy...something we already knew!

I'll try to post more pictures as the days and weeks go on.

MATTHEW'S ARRIVAL

Matthew Thomas was delivered today at 1:39 pm by C-section. He weighs 7 lb 12 oz and is 20 1/2 in long. Mom, Dad and Baby Matthew are all doing fine. He is a cutie and a definite keeper! Mom and Dad will update you once they are home and settled.

Aunt Abby

Happy Monday!

We made it to Monday! Daddy is at work and Matthew and I are trying to finish up a few last minute details around the house before we leave tonight! We are getting very excited and little nervous about the next 24-36 hours! We definitely enjoyed our last night of peace and quiet at our house! Ryan was imitating a baby's cry when we went to sleep last night!!! Thanks in advance for your prayers for our new family this week! We look forward to meeting Matthew and sharing him with all of you! Have a great week!

CH_ _CH... what's missing? ME

Most of you have probably seen this little riddle. Of course, the answer is UR, but today it's me who isn't at church. I debated on whether or not to go, but I am trying to be a good girl and follow the doctor's directions! I had my own little church service at home.

Yesterday was a pretty uneventful day around here. Ryan's mom and sister brought us lunch and my mom made us supper, so Ryan hasn't had to cook too much! I spent a few hours at my mom and dad's house for a change of scenery and some friends came over last night to keep me company for a couple hours. My blood pressure was 104/78 when I checked it yesterday morning, so laying low definitely has its perks! Hope all is well in your corners of the world! Better get back to the couch before Ryan gets home!!!!

Bedrest continued...

Well, one day of bedrest down, 3 to go!!! I am certainly thankful that this is a temporary situation and have much empathy for mommies who have to endure this for longer periods of time. So far, I have watched 2 movies, read Lutheran Hospital's Childbirth Center book in its entirety, studied 10 of 46 pages for my certification exam, watched the opening ceremonies to the Olympics, and slept!!! I am trying not to be too much of a pain in the neck for Ryan, but I have a feeling he will be happy when this weekend is over! I think I might sit outside later today... sounds like an adventure!

Matthew's BIG day!

Matthew and I have had an eventful morning! I had a doctor's appointment at 10:15 this morning. My blood pressure was 190/110!!!! YIKES! When they rechecked it, it came down to 130/88, however, it is still too high and my doctor has prescribed bedrest for me for the weekend. We will be going into the hospital on Monday night to be induced and should have our little boy in our arms sometime Tuesday! Keep checking back as we will update here if anything changes! Have a restful weekend!

Thankful Thursdays

Today, I am thankful for...

1. Flip flops. Thanks to my assortment of colorful sandals I have shoes that I can still get on my swollen feet at the end of a long day!!

2. Matthew's movements. I know that I will somehow miss the motion of this little one inside me once he arrives. It is amazing to feel him moving all over the place and I love to see Ryan's face when he catches a glimpse of him in action.

3. Faith. Life is hard, but God is good. I don't know how I would cope or get through this life without my faith. I am so thankful to have a God who loves me in spite of me and carries me when I am weak. What an awesome God we serve!

4. Address labels. I am getting ready to order invitations for a wedding shower I am hosting for my sister-in-law, and address labels are one of my favorite things!!! They save me so much time, especially when there are 80+ people on the guest list! YIKES!

5. Snoring. I think I woke myself up snoring this morning. I don't typically snore (at least I don't think I do), but when Ryan gets up to get ready in the mornings, I somehow sleep better than I do the rest of the night. This morning while he was in the shower I woke up to my own snoring. I had probably only been asleep for about 20 minutes, but it was glorious rest nonetheless!

Maybe next week Thankful Thursdays will include the delivery of our sweet baby!

The Chapman Family

Steven Curtis Chapman and his family were interviewed on Good Morning America this morning following the accident that took the life of their youngest daughter Maria. Here is the clip that had tears streaming down my face the entire time. I just about couldn't breathe when Steven said that as he and his wife were pulling out of the driveway to go to the hospital, he rolled down his window and shouted to his son, "Will Franklin, your father loves you!" What faith and love amid enormous grief!
http://abcnews.go.com/video/playerIndex?id=5524419

Jamie

Surprise!!!

Last night Ryan surprised me with a little graduation party at a local Mexican restaurant! We have been so busy getting ready for Matthew's arrival that I kinda forgot about graduating! It was so nice to get to spend some time with family before the big day! We even had cake with lots of icing!!!! Since it was my party, I got to eat the rose (I LOVE ICING)!!!! Then, we went to see Godspell. Matthew certainly enjoyed the music... he was dancing all over the place. I thought maybe the combination of music and Mexican might encourage him to make an appearance, but he is still quite content right where he is! Maybe another day! Thanks to everyone who came to the party last night... it is so nice to have this milestone accomplished!

Still Waiting...

Well, we're pretty much ready for Matthew to be here. We spent this weekend getting some things ready around the house (washing sheets, newborn clothes, putting batteries in everything...). We also hung the little quilts spelling out Matthew's name on the wall this weekend! Thanks, Phyllis...They look great! The house is ready...Momma's ready...Daddy's ready...Now if only Matthew would be ready! I love using the term "ready" because I know that we have no idea what to expect, but just go along with it!
I bought Matthew something at Baby's R' Us the other day. Football season is coming soon (preseason started last night!) and I saw the smallest Peyton Manning jersey ever! I had to get it. So I did. I can't wait to spend lazy winter Sunday afternoons holding Matthew and watching the Colts march to the Super Bowl again! Go Colts!

Doctor Update

Well, another doctor's appointment down, only a few more to go! Matthew was once again his charming self at the doctor today. He was well behaved and received clearance to remain another week in the womb! My blood pressure was 120/82 which is great considering I gained almost 11 pounds since my visit 2 weeks ago! Most of the weight gain is water weight as evidenced by my ever increasing ankle size. My doctor told me no one can gain 11 pounds in 2 weeks at the end of their pregnancy unless it is water because there is not enough room for that much food anymore. I had to remove my wedding ring today which made me kind of sad, but I know this is only temporary. We just finished eating out with my parents at Cork N Cleaver to celebrate my graduation. I am sure the extra sodium in my Thai Peanut Chicken will help with the swelling! The one thing I am looking forward to with all this swelling is knowing what it is like to lose 10+ pounds over a couple days once this little guy arrives (it will be like a miracle diet)!!!! My doctor also cut my work hours back to 8 hour shifts instead of 12 hours. I am just hoping I can find shoes that my feet will fit into for work tomorrow! Have a great weekend!

Congratulations!

Congratulations to Charlie and Becca on the birth of their son Logan Christopher on Monday! I went to nursing school with Becca and we have been sharing our first pregnancy experiences with each other! So happy for you both! He's adorable!

Thankful Wednesday

Since I missed last week while at camp, I decided to post Thankful Thursdays a day early!
Today, I am thankful for...

1. IOH surgeons. Last week while we were at camp, my Uncle Mark required unexpected triple bypass surgery. He is only 52 years old and this was a pretty scary time for all of us. He is recovering in the hospital, and we are all thankful for the technology that made it possible to know that he had 2 arteries that were 100% blocked and one that was 75% blocked. We are all praying for a speedy recovery for him.

2. Facebook. I have been a member of this lovely invention for some time now but never really checked in to see if anyone left me a message. Since getting home from camp, I have made many new friends on Facebook and look forward to keeping up with the kids throughout the year.

3. Nail polish. I actually managed to paint my own toenails today! It was quite a feat and I am sure it would have been funny to watch, but the job is done! Hopefully, this paint job will last me until Matthew arrives!

4. GRADUATION!!!! Hallelujah! I have officially finished all the requirements for my Master's degree. I should have a diploma that makes it official very soon!

5. Leftovers! I haven't had to go to the grocery since we got home from camp because of all the leftovers from the wedding shower I hosted on Sunday!!!!! I typically do not like leftovers, but this week I LOVE them!

Sleepy Head

Hello! Good to be back among the blogging world. I think I am still recovering from camp. I felt fabulous the entire time we were gone and Matthew behaved himself! I gave him a little pep talk before we left for camp. I think the week has kind of caught up with me. Yesterday, I spent most of the day in bed. Today, I have been up and around, but am starting to feel tired now that I sat down at the computer to catch up. My cankles are a permanent fixture these days and I don't think I could get me feet in regular shoes if I wanted to. I have a doctor's appointment on Thursday and I am hoping she might check to see if I am dilated yet. I have been having a few contractions here and there but nothing too exciting yet! Will keep everyone posted! Have a great week!

Back Home Again In Indiana!

We're Back!!! We had a GREAT time at camp this week. The theme of this week's camp was "GRACE". We watched one of my favorite movies, "Hoosiers" this week, had great Bible studies, had a very good group (Detroit Red Wings), played a lot of sports, and just had a wonderful time with everyone. Jamie got along just fine this week and everyone was glad to see she had not had Matthew while we were up in Michigan! It actually took until Thursday for at least 3 campers to notice that she was pregnant! Teenagers are so funny! We didn't have a lot of time to take pictures, but here are some that we did take. I'm hoping to get some more from some of the kids' Facebook pages! Enjoy.

Doctor Update

Just wanted you all to know that the doctor has cleared Matthew and I for camp! My blood pressure was great today and she said he looked good on the ultrasound. She also told us that he was a good sized baby, but not too big! That was nice to hear. She said that his larger size did not mean an early induction or even that he would arrive early! So, August 25th is still what we are planning on!
Signing off for now!
See ya next week!

Thankful Thursday

Today, I am thankful for...

1. Air conditioning!!!!

2. My mom and sister. I have been getting ready to host a wedding shower the day after we get home from camp, and they have been so much help! My mom is helping me make most of the food and my sister is helping me get my house in order. Have I mentioned that I love some of the perks that come along with pregnancy? I figure I might as well accept the help while it's being offered! Thanks to both of you!

3. My washing machine. Even though it has run over twice in the last month, I am thankful that we have a place in our home to do laundry. The two times it ran over were our fault, so we can hardly blame the machine! I love coming into our house and smelling fresh, clean laundry.

4. My co-workers. A couple weeks ago they threw a baby shower for me, and yesterday, I received a phone call that there were more gifts waiting to be picked up from some of the girls who couldn't make it to the shower! I really do work with a great bunch of people and am grateful for their kindness to me during this pregnancy.

5. Grace. This is the topic of the CAC devotions for this year. I am so thankful that each day I can start anew because my God is bigger than me and loves me in spite of me!

This may be our last post before we leave for camp. I will probably be taking next week off from blogging. No news is good news as far as blogging goes! Please pray for us as we travel to camp and spend a week with some amazing kids! We look forward to sharing some camp stories with you when we return!

Clear for Take-off!!!

Well, we just got home from our ultrasound.... The ultrasound technician informed us that Matthew is locked and loaded which means head down and ready for exit. We were wondering whether we needed to call the traffic control tower to request a fly-by before his arrival. She also told us she was willing to stake her entire week's pay on the fact that Matthew was a boy (keep in mind this was the same girl who told us we were having a little girl 14 weeks ago).

The BIGGEST news of all is that Matthew is weighing in at a hefty 6 lbs 6 ozs today. Since we have 6 weeks to go, there is a great possibilty that our little guy might be wearing toddler clothes home from the hospital! We weren't sure whether Ryan's nightly dose of ice cream has caused our baby's large size or the entire package of sandwich cookies Jamie has had over the last week. Either way, we both decided to celebrate with a large twist ice cream cone from Zesto's on the way home! Jamie has one more doctor's appointment Friday afternoon to get cleared for camp and then we will be praying for a delivery sometime after July 27th! Gotta start packing! Have a great week!

Thankful Thursdays

Today, I am thankful for:

1. Beautiful weather! I have been able to spend some quality time outside over the last couple weeks. I was so worried that I would be miserable this summer with the heat, however, so far so good.

2. Encouraging people. I have been blessed with some really encouraging people in my life during this pregnancy, people who say things like, "I can hardly tell you are pregnant" even though I know there is no mistaking it these days. I have become more conscious of what I say to people throughout this process. I have decided that no one wants to be told, "You look puffy," whether they are pregnant or not (yes, someone actually said this to me at the end of a 12 hour shift at work).

3. Palmer's Cocoa Butter Cream. Well, I must say I was not a firm believer in this stuff until I actually tried it. In all my schooling I have been told that stretch marks are familial and you cannot really prevent them. Well, a few weeks ago, my belly started to erupt with them. I have been a tad self conscious about it, even with Ryan, so I bought some Palmer's just to try it. After only a few days of using it, I can tell that they are starting to fade already! HOORAY! Now, I just smell like cocoa butter all the time which makes me hungry!

4. Our recliner. Last night around 1:30 I developed the most awful heartburn. I couldn't stand laying flat, so I got up and went and slept in the recliner. I was able to sleep great until about 6 AM when Ryan was up and around. I went back to our bed then and was able to sleep for another hour or so. That recliner has been a lifesaver on a couple of occasions throughout this pregnancy.

5. Christian Athletic Camp. One week from Saturday Ryan and I will be heading to Grand Rapids, MI to counsel at CAC. This will be my 9th year at camp (5 years as a camper, 4 as a counselor). It is one of the highlights of our summer and we are so excited to be able to go this year!!!! Please pray for the campers and the counselors as we all prepare to converge on Caledonia Middle School for a week full of sports and Jesus!!!! It's always such an incredible time!

Olympic Pineapple Swimming

WEEK 33 UPDATE...
Matthew is now weighing in at a hefty 4 pounds, and is about 17 inches long. Hard to imagine all that fitting in Jamie's belly area. Matthew's skeleton is starting to harden, making him look much less alien at this time in the pregnancy. He has been quite the kicker all along, and seems to especially enjoy spaghetti and ice cream. If push comes to shove, and Jamie is late delivering, I'll feed her spaghetti flavored ice cream, and he should be doing the butterfly stroke right down the birth canal. Ok, so that was a little gross. Sorry. With all the Olympic swimming on television, Jamie is wondering whether we have the next Michael Phelps in her belly.
Jamie is scheduled for another ultrasound next week, just to make sure that Matthew really has turned. Then another doctor's appointment next Friday.
We are really looking forward to the little guy making an appearance soon. But not too soon, as we are still going to camp in 2 weeks, so any time after that would be great!

The Return of the CANKLES!!!!

Well, this morning when I got home from work, my cankles (calves and ankles so swollen you can't distinguish between the two) had returned. I told Ryan I felt like I had duck feet!!!! After a few hours sleep and some spaghetti and garlic bread, they have reduced to just slightly swollen! I am pretty sure the spaghetti had nothing to do with their reduction, but it certainly tasted YUMMY! Ryan even surprised me and made it the way I like it (my way=lots of sauce, his way=barely coated with sauce and dry noodles).

Hope everyone had a nice 4th! I worked all weekend, so I enjoyed one firework that I saw from the window of the hospital! Oh well, my job security is never in question! Speaking of hospitals, we just got home from visiting my grandma in the emergency room. She has been coughing for the last day or so, and we finally convinced her to go to the hospital today after a pretty scary night of not being able to catch her breath! The doctor thinks she either has pneumonia or bronchitis and we are awaiting the test results to find out for sure. I am going back to the hospital after while to find out!

Life is otherwise normal around here. Ryan is taking his afternoon nap, and I am trying to get motivated to work on homework! Only a few more days and school will be over!!! I am getting very excited and can see the light at the end of the tunnel! After being in school for 21+ years, I am looking forward to a break from the books for awhile!

Have a great week!!!

Thankful Thursdays...Ryan Style

Today, I am thankful for...

1. A baby heading the right direction. We had a doctor's appointment this afternoon, and Jamie's doctor seems to think that Matthew has decided that head-first is the way to go. Talk about an answer to prayers! Soon, he'll be heading on out!

2. Oreos. Jamie and I went to the grocery last night to get some things for this weekend. Oreos were not on the list. Jamie sent Ryan to get things near the Oreo aisle. Oreos jumped into the cart. Ryan eats a whole row of Oreos before bed. Ryan is happy.

3. Being NEAR family and friends. Seriously, has anyone noticed the ga$ price$?

4. My beautiful wife. She is still getting no sleep, is uncomfortable most of the time, and has to live with a husband who doesn't always find the right words to say at the right times. With all that is happening to her, she continues to amaze me with her love and grace toward me. I love you, hun.

5. Our independence. This weekend, when we are partying and having a great time with family and friends, I hope all of us remember the ones that have served and are serving our country. I am so thankful to live in the United States of America. One of the reasons why this country is so great is because of the soldiers who protect it. I have the greatest respect for those men and women who have given the ultimate sacrifice to our country. My prayer is that they will someday soon be able to come home to their families.

Big Baby Means Big Diapers

ONLY 8 WEEKS TO GO!!! It hardly seems possible to think that in less than two months, we will be with child! Jamie seems calm as can be. I am trying to act like I am, but inside I am just as anxious as a three year old the night before Christmas. I'll try to contain my excitement enough to finish the growth report. Matthew now weighs about 3.75 pounds (about the size of a large jicama). Don't ask...I don't know what a jicama is, either. He should be about 17 inches long, and will gain about a pound a week over the next 7 weeks. Which, if I do my math correctly, does that mean we'll be having a 10.75 pound baby??? Holy big baby!

In other Peppler news, we bought a minivan last week. No, it's not orange. Actually, it's black. It's a 2007 Kia Sedona. We started a tradition several years ago of naming every car we have had. For instance, Jamie's Alero was named Beverly. My Explorer was named Malcolm (Malcolm Ex). My sister had a Cougar that she named Johnny Cougar. Just another example of how odd we are. The problem is that our new vehicle does not have a name. I'll put a picture of the van below. We need a name for our van. Send us your entry, and you'll receive a prize*.



*Prize mentioned above is purely the satisfaction that you named our van. Thank you for playing.

D-Day

Well, I have officially decided to start counting down the days until Matthew's arrival instead of the weeks. At this point in time, 56 days seems a lot shorter to me than 8 weeks. Considering someone at work this weekend told me that she thought I would be delivering before this morning, I am thankful for each day the little guy decides to remain inside! I am sure those feelings will change as the weeks melt away!

I have started exercising again! No time like the present I have decided. I walked a mile this morning and a mile yesterday. We are leaving for Christian Athletic Camp in less than 3 weeks and I decided I better try to get back in shape a little bit before then! This will probably be my last year at camp for awhile as I figure I will be busy being a Mommy, so I am very much looking forward to spending time with the campers and staff. Not to worry, there are several nurses on staff at camp so if Matthew decides to be dramatic there will be plenty of help available. Right now we are praying for an uneventful week as far as he goes.

Hope everyone had a nice weekend! I did manage to get a little sun in between shifts at work! Only 13 more possible work days for me between now and D-day! I am hoping it will be more like 9-10! Have a great week! Will update after our doctor's appointment on Thursday!

"You Finally Look Pregnant!"

These seem to be the words I am hearing at least once a day! For a long time, most people did not think I really looked pregnant, however, over the last couple weeks, it seems everyone has started to notice! At least people have stopped staring with that wondering look on their face, "Is she pregnant or just gaining weight?" A man at church on Sunday came up to me and said, "Congratulations! I asked your husband last week if you were pregnant because I didn't want to hurt your feelings!" How considerate! I knew this day would come, but I am still somewhat amazed at what people say!

In other news, the family we had visiting from Michigan yesterday were asking me if I minded it when people rubbed my belly. I said it doesn't really bother me, but I think it is pretty funny when people just come up to you and start rubbing it without any warning! I had a lady at church a couple weeks ago start rubbing my belly while she was having a conversation with someone else, and then she turned to me a said, "Ok, you can rub mine now!" It is funny to me how some people put their hands out like they're going to touch you and then don't. For those of you who would like to touch my belly, you have permission, but you've been warned that Matthew seems to like to kick people when they push too hard!

Baby Showers #2 and #3

Rachel and Deanna hosted my second baby shower last weekend. There were sure a bunch of monkeys hanging around!! The food was delicious and it was so nice to spend some time with Ryan's family. One of our favorite gifts was a cross-stitch with Matthew's name on it that his Aunt Darlene made for the nursery! I can't wait to hang it up!

Then, on Tuesday, I had a shower at Casa's with some of my co-workers. It was so nice to get together with them outside of work! Right now, there are 10 women pregnant at work, so everyone is convinced there is something in the water! We received wonderful gifts from them as well and have almost completely received everything off of our baby registry!!!! The nursery is nearly completed and now we just have 60 days (or less) until our little bundle of joy makes his appearance!

Thanks to everyone who came and helped with all of our showers. We are realizing everyday, more and more, just how blessed we are!